Glock 43X MOS Review: Unveiling the Compact Powerhouse
The Glock 43X MOS balances concealability and functionality as a highly versatile firearm in the compact pistol market. Chambered in 9x19, it is mainly designed for concealed carry, featuring a short subcompact barrel paired with a compact-size grip that facilitates a comfortable hold and easy maneuverability. Its popularity among everyday carry enthusiasts is partly due to its slim profile and reliable performance, which benefits users who prioritize a discreet yet effective self-defense option.
Building on the foundation of its predecessor, the Glock 43, the 43X MOS variant enhances the pistol with the introduction of the Modular Optic System. This feature allows for the direct attachment of micro-optic sights without needing supplementary mounting plates, setting a new standard in optic-ready pistols. The combination of the GLOCK Slim Mounting Rail and the MOS allows users to customize their firearms to meet their specific preferences for targeting and accuracy.
Key Takeaways
- The Glock 43X MOS is tailored for concealed carry with its compact grip and slim profile.
- It features the Modular Optic System, enhancing its capability for precision targeting.
- The design focuses on performance and ergonomics that are suitable for various user preferences.
Design and Ergonomics
The Glock 43X MOS is renowned for its ergonomic design and solid construction, which provide a combination of comfort and control ideal for concealed carry and shooting accuracy.
Frame and Construction
The frame of the Glock 43X MOS is crafted with a focus on ergonomics. It features a built-in beavertail design, which allows for a high and tight grip. The absence of finger grooves contributes to a cleaner draw and better hand fit for a diverse range of users. The slim build of the Glock 43X is specifically designed with a minimal width, enhancing concealability for everyday carry without compromising grip comfort.
Controls and Handling
When it comes to the controls on the Glock 43X MOS, they are strategically placed for intuitive use. The trigger on the Glock 43X MOS comes with a short distance to reach, which is beneficial for shooters with smaller hands. The magazine release is also noteworthy, designed to be easily accessible for quick and reliable magazine changes. It features a reversible magazine catch for added convenience, making it versatile for both right and left-handed shooters. The handling during shooting is precise and accurate, thanks to these thoughtful design choices, providing users with confident and reliable control during operation.
Modular Optic System (MOS)
The Glock 43X MOS brings advanced customization through its Modular Optic System, elevating the user's precision with compatible micro-optics. Adaptable and designed for ease of use, the MOS system is a core feature for shooters looking to enhance their aiming capabilities with minimal modifications.
Compatible Optics and Attachments
The Modular Optic System on the Glock 43X MOS is engineered to facilitate a wide array of micro-optics without needing adapter plates. Compatibility includes a range of famous sights, with a special mention of the Shield RMSC, which directly mounts to the slide's precut section. Generally, the MOS configuration allows users to attach:
- Various micro-optic sights that conform to the Glock MOS interface
- Tritium sights for improved low-light performance
Additionally, integrating the MOS system extends to the versatility of tactical attachments. Although the primary focus is on optical enhancements, the Glock 43X rail allows for additional attachments such as:
- Flashlights
- Laser sights
The design remains sleek and user-friendly, maintaining the handgun's compact nature, a cornerstone of the Glock 43X series. The absence of adapter plates streamlines the optic mounting process, enabling a swift and secure addition of chosen micro-optics, transforming the Glock 43X MOS into a personalized tool for precision shooting.
Performance and Precision
The Glock 43X MOS is engineered to offer a harmonious balance of reliable performance and pinpoint precision. It integrates advanced barrel technology and a thoughtful magazine design, ensuring that the shooter can depend on its consistent accuracy and sufficient capacity for a 9mm pistol aimed at concealed carry.
Barrel and Accuracy
The Glock 43X MOS features the Glock Marksman Barrel (GMB), designed to enhance accuracy. This precision barrel is critical for shooters who require consistent performance. The GMB uses enhanced rifling techniques, contributing to a more stable bullet trajectory and tighter groupings. This 9mm pistol's barrel and slide have been tailored to provide a seamless shooting experience where precision is paramount.
Capacity and Caliber
The Glock 43X MOS has a ten rds magazine capacity, which is optimal for a compact 9mm Luger firearm designed for concealment. The slim magazine is equipped with an orange follower, which provides high visibility and aids in assessing the remaining ammo count. The 9mm Luger caliber is a standard for self-defense and offers a good balance between stopping power and manageable recoil, making it a reliable choice for various shooters.
Comparative Analysis
The Glock 43X MOS is a noteworthy entrant in the compact firearm segment. It is designed with specific features that distinguish it from direct market alternatives and is backed by considerable aftermarket support.
Market Alternatives Comparison
When examining the Glock 43X MOS against its competitors, it is clear that size, capacity, and optics readiness are defining features. The Sig Sauer P365 and Springfield Hellcat are notable rivals, often compared for their concealability and magazine capacity, ideal for CCW (concealed carry weapon) users.
Feature |
Glock 43X MOS |
Sig Sauer P365 |
Springfield Hellcat |
Caliber |
9mm Luger |
9mm Luger |
9mm Luger |
Magazine Capacity |
Ten rounds |
10-15 rounds (with extensions) |
11-13 rounds |
Optics Ready |
Yes (MOS - Modular Optic System) |
Yes (SIG ROMEOZero) |
Yes (Optics ready models) |
Barrel Length |
3.41 inches |
3.1 inches |
3 inches |
Weight |
18.55 oz (empty) |
17.8 oz (empty) |
18.3 oz (empty) |
The Glock 43X MOS offers an advantage for users seeking a larger grip size, especially compared to the original Glock 43. It also includes a mounting system for optics, which the standard Glock 43 lacks. Regarding geographical restrictions, the Glock 43X MOS adheres to states like California's stringent regulations due to its 10-round magazine capacity.
Aftermarket Support
The aftermarket realm provides many enhancements and parts for the Glock 43X MOS. Moreover, companies like ETS offer extended magazines that maintain the firearm's compliance with state laws while providing additional capacity. The following are a few categories of widespread aftermarket support:
- Magazine extensions: Options for increased ammo capacity while still meeting regulations.
- Sights: Both iron sights and red-dot options are available to utilize the MOS system.
- Holsters: There is a wide variety of IWB (inside-the-waistband) and OWB (outside-the-waistband) holsters, emphasizing concealment and comfort.
- Barrels: Custom barrels that may offer improved accuracy or allow for specific customizations.
The Glock 48 shares much in terms of aftermarket parts with the 43X MOS, giving users a wide array of interchangeable options, especially in the realm of grips, triggers, and internal components, further enhancing the utility and personalization of the firearm.
Frequently Asked Questions
The questions below address common inquiries about the Glock 43X MOS, a compact and versatile pistol designed for concealed carry and optimized for red dot optics.
What red dot sights are compatible with the Glock 43X MOS?
The Glock 43X MOS is designed to accept a variety of micro red dot sights. It has a factory-milled slide that accommodates different optics with the correct adapter plate.
Can you explain the differences between Glock 43X MOS Gen 5 and previous generations?
The Gen 5 version of the Glock 43X MOS includes an improved barrel design for increased accuracy, an enhanced grip texture, and a flared mag well for easier reloading compared to previous generations.
What are the best holster options for carrying a Glock 43X MOS?
Holsters that provide secure retention and comfortable concealed carry are best for the Glock 43X MOS. IWB (Inside-the-Waistband), OWB (Outside-the-Waistband), and custom holsters designed for red dot sights.
How does the Glock 43X MOS compare to the standard Glock 43X in terms of performance and features?
The Glock 43X MOS features a slide cut for mounting optics, while the standard Glock 43X does not. Both models share similar ergonomic designs, trigger systems, and magazine capacities.
Which accessories are recommended to enhance the functionality of the Glock 43X MOS?
Recommended accessories for the Glock 43X MOS include red dot optics, night sights for the iron sights backup, extended magazine releases, and grip extensions for improved handling.
What are the color options available for the Glock 43X MOS?
The Glock 43X MOS is available in various colors, including classic black and options like Flat Dark Earth. Color availability may vary based on market conditions and special edition releases.
Justin Hunold
Wilderness/Outdoors Expert
Justin Hunold is a seasoned outdoor writer and content specialist with CYA Supply. Justin's expertise lies in crafting engaging and informative content that resonates with many audiences, and provides a wealth of knowledge and advice to assist readers of all skill levels.